Nearly 50 years after the release of the iconic 1976 game Breakout, a fresh take on the classic brick-breaker is arriving: Breakout Beyond. Maintaining the core paddle-and-ball mechanics, Breakout Beyond introduces a unique sideways scrolling perspective, shifting the gameplay from a vertical to a horizontal plane.
Developed by Choice Provisions, the creators of the acclaimed BIT.TRIP series, Breakout Beyond features a left-to-right progression, challenging players to strategically break bricks. As combos build, the visual spectacle intensifies with vibrant lights and dazzling effects. Special bricks trigger spectacular events, from massive explosions to the deployment of a powerful laser cannon.
The game boasts 72 planned levels, complemented by an unlockable endless mode with an online global leaderboard for competitive play. For those who prefer cooperative fun, Breakout Beyond also includes local two-player co-op.
Originally slated as an exclusive title for the Intellivision Amico in 2020, Atari acquired the development rights and completed the project. "We're thrilled to bring this gem to our players," stated Ethan Stearns, Atari's senior director of games publishing. "The team felt it was a brilliant concept—preserving the essence of Breakout's gameplay while completely reinventing its formula. Breakout Beyond is a worthy addition to the Breakout legacy, and we eagerly anticipate the incredible combos players will create."
The Intellivision Amico, announced in 2018 with a projected 2020 launch, has yet to be released, encountering various setbacks and delays over the years. Atari acquired the Intellivision branding and intellectual property rights last year, but not the Amico console itself.
Breakout Beyond launches later this year on PC, PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox Series X and S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and the Atari VCS.
